Episodes
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Obedience to the ways of Jesus can sound closed-minded or restrictive, but in today’s episode we’re breaking down that myth for good.
We’re delighted to have pastor Rich Villodas join us today to talk about what it looks like to live on the Narrow Path Jesus taught about, and why it creates the most expansive life you could have. Learn what cultural Christianity gets wrong about the way of Jesus and how to walk the narrow way for a more joy filled life and marriage.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
Signs you’re not living out the Narrow Path Jesus taught about
Learn the damaging beliefs of cultural Christianity that don’t align with Jesus’ teaching
Ways that shallow faith shows up in marriage - and what to do about it
Internal shifts to help you value what matters to your spouse
Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Dying to self to live in Christ is the path to a full and expansive life. What would it look like to live this out in your marriage today?
Questions to Discuss:
How are you doing with each of the cultural values of successism, moralism, and hyperindividualism in your marriage?
What growth step would help you follow the narrow way of Jesus more closely with each of those?
QUOTES
“It seems restrictive on the outside, but ultimately following Jesus leads to greater spaciousness in our lives.” - Rich Villodas
“Is it possible for Christians to be on the ‘broad path’? Absolutely. Which is why the Sermon on the Mount is a wake up call to the kind of discipleship that Jesus is calling us to live into.” - Rich Villodas
“Jesus is saying, ‘the kind of life you were designed for is found in my teachings.’” - Rich Villodas
“We might be on the broad path if we are organizing our lives according to worldly notions of what success is.” - Rich Villodas
“The paradox of the Christian life is that to die in Christ is to actually come alive and truly live.” - Rich Villodas
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Rich’s new book The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls
Find more from Rich on his website, on Instagram, and learn more about his church, NewLife.nyc
Ready to break free from negative thought patterns? Use these 11 Prayers to get you on the right path!
Grab the beloved House Prayer Cards and make praying over your home a regular part of your day!
Our ministry is made possibly ONLY through our generous donors. Plus, they get each month’s new marriage resource automatically, as well as some other exclusive perks! Learn more about Marriage Changers Membership here.
Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
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Conflict in marriage is inevitable: it’s how you handle it that matters most. But what about couples who really never fight? What happens to conflict that is never addressed and only stays under the surface? Does it ever really go away?
Listen today to learn better ways to handle the issues you don’t know how to deal with.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.Episode highlights include:
Tips to initiate a hard conversation you’ve been avoiding
How to stay grounded when you want to shut down
How conflict can actually lead to better intimacy and connection
Helpful nonconfrontational ways to broach difficult topics
Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Dealing with the important issues together paves the way for true peace, and learning effective conflict solving skills is a win for your marriage.
Questions to Discuss:
Some skills mentioned are: Intentionality - set up a good time to talk, use “I” statements, do not blame your spouse, focus on what you would like to achieve together through the conversation. Pick the one that would help you the most.
What is one easy issue you can tackle together to practice better resolution skills? Focus on using your chosen skill.
QUOTES
If a couple said they never had conflict, I would think they’re not being completely honest with each other. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
I think the more you fear conflict, the less you’re able to resolve it. - Lindsay Few
We want to equip couples to handle it in a healthy way. - Lindsay Few
Conflict is not bad in itself. It’s how we handle conflict. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
Yes, we want peace in our homes. But you can’t have it if you ignore things that need to be dealt with. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
It’s ok if you get stuck, just don’t stay stuck. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Do you want a better friendship with your spouse? Build your friendship with the 5 Day Friendship Challenge.
Have you lost the connection you once had? Rebuild friendship with your spouse using the 5 Day Rebuilding Friendship Challenge.
Our ministry is made possibly ONLY through our generous donors. Plus, they get each month’s new marriage resource automatically, as well as some other exclusive perks! Learn more about Marriage Changers Membership here.
Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
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Marriage conflict is hard, but you know what makes it even harder? Trying to WIN. Because if you win, that means your spouse loses. And that’s not great for your marriage connection. Break out of the “my way” versus “your way” myth and learn what it means to work together to have a win for your marriage.
Today we’re unpacking the process of how to win TOGETHER. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
Episode highlights include:
Why taking divorce off the table changes the dynamics of conflict.
What does it mean for the marriage to “win” and how can you do it?
Key steps for healthy conflict resolution
The importance of empathy and proactive communication to prevent arguments.
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide
Main takeaway: Marriage conflict is hard. When you try to win, you make it even harder.
Questions to Discuss:
Are there any issues that have you stuck in a “win/lose” cycle?
Have you considered any creative “third” options (options that aren’t “your way” or “their way”) that could solve the issue?
Brainstorm possible options. During brainstorming, no idea is too out there! Just get lots of other options on the table to help you start looking for marriage wins instead of fighting over your individual preference.
QUOTES
"If you’re trying to win, that means your spouse loses." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
"A marriage win creates two winners." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
"Ask: What's going to make our marriage win?" - Dr. Kim Kimberling
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Get the Love Making Survey 2.0! Now expanded with 20 new questions PLUS the 7-day Love Making Challenge, it’s our Giving Tuesday gift to you, as a thank you for your donation to the ministry of Awesome Marriage!
Shop Honoring Intimates for lingerie, lubricants and more with NO lewd images, and use our discount code AWESOMEMARRIAGE for 20% off!
Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
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Couples often enter marriage with high expectations, and are then dismayed to learn that marriage is not a fairy tale after all. What do you do when marriage doesn't make you happy? How can we break out of our selfish hopes and become the spouse God intends us to be?
Listen to learn practical ways to reconcile your marriage dreams with your married reality.
We all have hopes and dreams for marriage, and the reality of life is that they don’t always play out the way we expected. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!Episode highlights include:
How your expectations before marriage impact your relationship
The hidden role of selfishness in marital issues and conflicts
How to cultivating humility helps to understand your spouse better
Recognizing the redemptive nature of marriage can lead to deeper connections.
Steps to finding a true and deeper joy in marriage
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Unrealistic expectations of marriage are pretty common, but they can take away from enjoying the marriage you’re actually living. If marriage isn’t making you happy, then that’s your cue to start sowing into it.
Questions to Discuss:
What expectations did you bring into marriage that you later realized were unrealistic?
What are some things you’d love to see more of in your marriage, and how can you work together to make that happen?
Do you have friends who will give you hard feedback when needed? What step can you take to build a friendship like that?
QUOTES
“A lot of people getting married have high hopes for marriage, then a few years into it they realize it’s not going to be their source of identity, hope and happiness. That realization kind of turns their world upside down.” - Chelsea Damon
“What does God say about me? I had to do some soul searching to see what God has to say about me without trying to find that sense of security in my spouse.” - Chelsea Damon
“Marriage does a good of showing you who you are, and all of your faults. It’s a good wake up call for who you are as a person.” - Chelsea Damon
“One of the things couples find surprising are the expectations they don’t even know they’re bringing into marriage.” - Chelsea Damon
“I realized so much of my sense of security was not in the right place. I decided to put that back on Christ and find my identity in Him.” - Chelsea Damon
“You need someone who’s willing to speak into your life.” - Chelsea Damon
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Find Chelsea on her website, Instagram,
Grab a copy of Chelsea’s book, I Thought This Would Make Me Happy
Shop Honoring Intimates for lingerie, lubricants and more with NO lewd images, and use our discount code AWESOMEMARRIAGE for 20% off!
Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! -
Today we’re answering listener questions about how to handle the pain of a spouse’s porn use.
Unfortunately, this is a pretty common issue we hear about from couples, but the good news is that you CAN heal and move forward. So today we’re answering listener questions about healing and recovery from pornography in marriage. We’ll talk about the process for forgiveness, what to do if you just cannot forgive and move on, how to rebuild trust, and practical strategies to combat intrusive thoughts.
Listen for practical ways to heal and recover your heart and your marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
How to forgive and move forward when it feels impossible
Changing your view if you can’t separate your spouse from the hurtful behavior
The balance of feeling safe and willingness to be vulnerable
Boundary setting to allow for healing
Getting out of the comparison trap and starting to feel beautiful and desirable again
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: When your marriage is recovering from porn use, repentance is the first step. Forgiveness allows you to heal, and boundaries help facilitate marriage healing. You can rebuild your marriage even better than before.
Questions to Discuss:
What does your spouse do that helps you trust them?
Are there any areas where you need to build or repair trust with your spouse?
What can you do together to help that process?
QUOTES
“Until you forgive, you’re still giving a lot of power to what happened.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“One of the best prayers is asking God to help you see your spouse through His eyes.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“We want assurance that nothing will ever hurt us again, but that’s not possible.” Lindsay Few
“Look for Jesus in your spouse. When you see that, things are probably going to be pretty good.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
This is not a hurdle to get through: this is a lifestyle change. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
There’s nothing wrong with being accountable, not because you ‘have to,’ but because you love your spouse. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“You’ve got to be completely open and transparent with each other. You can’t have trust without that.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Sign up for the Free 5 Steps to Healing After Porn Betrayal to learn the steps you need to take to live a marriage undefiled and experience closeness and intimacy again
Past podcast episodes on healing your marriage after porn:
How to Regain Trust With Your Spouse After Porn | Ep. 561
How to Rebuild Intimacy With Your Spouse After Porn | Ep. 562
Has your marriage been damaged by the effects of porn? Not sure what’s next? Download the 8 Steps To Heal Your Marriage After Porn to learn your next steps to healing.
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Are your kids protected from p*rn? Do they know how to fight back? What if they’ve already been exposed to it?
So many parents do not know how to protect their kids from porn, or how to equip them with what to do if they are exposed to it. We are so pleased to hear from Kristen Jenson today on the podcast with the answers to your questions. Equip yourself so that you can equip kids well.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
The hidden mental health dangers of p*rn
The scripts parents need to discuss p*rn with their kids’
Tips for digital safety in today's technology-driven world.
When should you start talking to your kids about p*rn?
Which phones are safer for kids?
Resources that will help you guide your kids or grandchildren
The need for open conversations that can protect children's innocence.
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Your kids & grandkids need a plan in place to protect them from the danger of porn exposure and addiction. Today’s episode will equip you to make that plan.
Questions to Discuss:
Have you taken the time to equip your kids with what to do if they are exposed to porn?
Do you have a plan to resist the temptation of porn or explicit materials?
If not, use the resources below to develop a plan today.
QUOTES
“If you’re worried about what to do with your kids about p*rn, this podcast is for you.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“P*rnography is fueling a huge rise in child-on-child harmful sexual behavior.” - Kristen Jenson
“How do you talk to kids about it in a way that doesn’t scare them, doesn’t scare the parents and gives them a real plan?” - Kristen Jenson
“We all need scripts for certain life situations. There are no scripts passed down for this problem.” - Kristen Jenson
“We live in a world awash with addiction. We need to teach our kids how to protect their brains from addiction.” - Kristen Jenson
“P*rnography is the tool of choice. If kids know what to do, they’re going to be that much safer.” - Kristen Jenson
“We have an opportunity to say, no this isn’t normal. No, this isn’t healthy.” - Kristen Jenson
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Purchase Kristen’s books: Good Pictures Bad Pictures: Porn-Proofing Today's Young Kids, Good Pictures Bad Pictures Jr., and the Guidebook for Counseling Kids
Learn about our the brand new curriculum Brain Defense: Digital Safety
Keep current with empowering articles From Defend Young Minds
Use the instantly-downloadable guides to help you teach your child
Follow Defend Young Minds on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn
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If porn has damaged your marriage, healing is possible. And you are not alone…This is unfortunately a common issue we hear from couples about. So today on the podcast, we’re answering listener questions about healing and recovery from pornography in marriage. We’ll talk about the need for forgiveness, what to do when a spouse cannot forgive and move on, how to rebuild trust, and practical strategies to combat temptation.
Listen for practical ways to engage in healing and recovery for you and your marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
What to do if a spouse can’t forgive past porn use
How to make a plan for dealing with temptation.
Necessary steps in the trust-rebuilding process
Help to understand the impact on a wife’s self-image
How shame and isolation impact recovery
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Porn use can really damage the trust in marriage, but recovery is possible. Learn how and do what it takes to rebuild trust and does not
Questions to Discuss:
What are the areas of vulnerability in your marriage?
How can you make a plan to protect your marriage where you need it most?
Is there anything you need to come clean about with your spouse? Do it today.
QUOTES
“The things a spouse needs to do for recovery are good for them AND good for the marriage. It really works together.” Lindsay Few
“Most men I talk to have no idea how devastating their p*rn use was for their wife.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“It’s so important to have a plan in place.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“Remember that temptation itself is not sin. It’s what you do once you are tempted.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“You can use temptation as a red flag to drive you toward things that are good for you.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“God doesn’t want us stuck in shame, but the enemy sure does.” - Lindsay Few
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Podcast episode:
We mentioned this episode with Matt Cline
Other helpful episodes: How to Regain Trust With Your Spouse After Porn | Ep. 561
How to Rebuild Intimacy With Your Spouse After Porn | Ep. 562
Sign up for the Free 5 Steps to Healing After Porn Betrayal to learn the steps you need to take to live a marriage undefiled and experience closeness and intimacy again -
How is the emotional intimacy in your marriage? Do you feel safe telling your spouse anything? Do you feel loved, heard, and understood?
Marriage is meant to be a refuge…a place where you each feel safe sharing deep personal feelings and confident you will be graciously received by your spouse. The problem is that many of us don’t talk about or even understand our own emotions. And if we can’t properly process our emotions, it will be very hard to build true emotional closeness in marriage.
Tune in today to learn the Do’s and Don’t of emotional intimacy. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
Surprising behaviors that may shut our spouses down emotionally
What wives tend to get wrong about emotional intimacy
What husbands often get wrong about emotional intimacy
What we miss out on when emotional intimacy is missing in marriage
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Emotional intimacy is being able to share your thoughts, feelings, hopes, fears, and more with your spouse and be loved and accepted. It is a building block of great connection in marriage.
Questions to Discuss:
How safe do you feel sharing anything you need to with your spouse?
What could you do to better accept your spouse as they are?
What helps you feel emotionally close and connected?
QUOTES
Wives may experience more of the feeling of the lack of emotional intimacy. - Lindsay Few
I promise you, after 54 years of marriage, that your spouse cannot read your mind. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
A lot of times we think our spouse thinks like we think. Dr. Kim Kimberling
Our assumptions really get us in trouble. - Lindsay Few
Instead of thinking your spouse is a terrible person, realize they’re just different. They don’t see things the same way you do. - Lindsay Few
God didn’t give feelings and emotions to women that He didn’t give to men. He gave us the same feelings and emotions. It changes your life when you get in touch with that. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
We’re all emotional. We’re just not all in touch with them. - Lindsay Few
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Take the 5 Days to Deeper Emotional Intimacy challenge to learn practical steps to growing emotional intimacy with your spouse.
FREE Awesome Marriage Feelings Chart PrintableFREE Married couples card game Heart-to-Heart is a game designed to deepen emotional intimacy and connection between you two.
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We’re so happy to have David and Meg Robbins from FamilyLife joining us on the podcast today. The Robbins have been in ministry for many years and have learned so many important truths about what it takes to create a marriage strong enough to stand strong through the years.
Today they share their wisdom and experience. You don’t want to miss this conversation, full of wisdom and practical application that will benefit you and your marriage.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
The unique strengths of Gen Z when it comes to pursuing marriage
The 3 threats every marriage faces
The power of the Holy Spirit to stand strong
Daily habits to fight the drift that busyness creates in marriage
Scheduling habits to keep your marriage connected
How to find an encouraging community of support - and why it matters
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Don’t neglect the health of your marriage: Keep short accounts when things need to be addressed between you, and cultivate supportive community.
Questions to Discuss:
Are you aware of the spiritual battle for your marriage?
Are there any ways you’re viewing your spouse as your enemy, and neglecting to protect your mind and heart against the real enemy?
Where would your life and marriage benefit from community? What step can you take today to nurture your friendships, mentorship and fellowship?
QUOTES
Younger generations are doing a lot of deep story work. - Meg Robbins
We all have ingrained sin patterns that we bring into marriage. - David Robbins
Vulnerability does involve risk. It’s not status quo. Yet vulnerability is the pathway to deeper intimacy. - David Robbins
You have to take risky steps to take down the walls around your heart. - Meg Robbins
With little things, we can be hard on ourselves. But when you spend time with other people, you realize these are normal things. - Meg Robbins
Most people want to talk about their marriage, it just requires someone else to start the conversation. Anyone of us can crack open the conversation. - David Robbins
A healthy marriage is one that’s repenting often. - David Robbins
No marriage is going to naturally drift towards awesome oneness. - Meg Robbins
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Find marriage-building resources and events at www.FamilyLife.com
Find and follow FamilyLife on YouTube
Utilize FamilyLife’s The Art of Marriage small group course
Nurture your marriage with our FREE 15 Better Assumptions to Make About Your Spouse printable.
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Are you familiar with the 5 levels of communication and where they fit in your marriage? Do you use all 5 levels in your marriage? The basics of communication sound simple on paper, yet most couples are struggling to communicate effectively. And when communication falls short, your connection suffers, conflict ramps up, and marriage isn’t the partnership you hoped for.
Today Dr. Kim shares these levels and how to use them, so you can access all 5 types of communication your marriage needs and avoid common communication breakdowns with your spouse. Tune in to learn more!
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
5 communication levels you and your spouse need
Simple tips for avoiding common communication breakdowns
Getting to deep communication with a less talkative spouse
Common mistakes husbands and wives make with deeper communication
How to respect your spouse’s personal communication style
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: When you talk, be mindful of communicating in ways that your spouse will be able to really hear you. When your spouse talks, listen well, and don’t neglect any of the 5 communication levels.
Questions to Discuss:
Which levels of communication come more naturally in your marriage?
Which levels are harder to use?
What is one thing you can do today to make sure you communicate in a way your spouse will be able to receive well?
QUOTES
“Communication is so essential. I don’t know if there's ever a couple that comes in for counseling and it’s not an issue.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“It sounds simple enough, but at the same time most couples are struggling with communication.” - Lindsay Few
“It’s important that you pay attention to each other. That you value it and listen to each other.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“There are so many distractions in life. It’s important to tune in.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“Instead of blaming our spouse because they’re not listening well, ask how well am I communicating with them?” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“We have a responsibility to grow in self awareness, and marriage is a beautiful way to do that.“ Lindsay Few
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Turn to God and ask him to renew your mind with our NEW resource, 11 Prayers To Stop Thinking Negatively About Your Spouse
15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here!
Follow Awesome Marriage on Instagram for more marriage tips!
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Are you truly resolving your marriage issues? Most couples experience recurring arguments that never truly resolve. This cycle leaves you with two problems: 1, You never solved the issue, and 2, now one or both are hurt and angry. Plus you’ve got some baggage around the issue, too. Today we’re going to help you learn how to resolve the actual issues.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
What NOT to do in a recurring argument
Communication tips to help you prevent conflict
Conversation hacks to prevent defensiveness
The process to understand the REAL underlying issues
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: If you have recurring arguments (most couples do!) there’s probably a deeper issue you’re not aware of. Get under the surface to resolve the real issue.
Questions to Discuss:
On a scale from 1-10, how well do you and your spouse resolve your marriage conflict?
Better communication helps you address the real issues you need to resolve. What is one step you can take to grow your communication today?
QUOTES
"Most couples have recurring arguments that never truly resolve" - Lindsay Few
"Being vulnerable builds intimacy and trust." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
"Using 'I' statements takes ownership and responsibility." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
"Learning to resolve conflict in a healthy way is a gift to your marriage." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Our Conflict Resolution Cheat Sheet is a printable resource to help you address conflict the healthy way. Grab the free cheat sheet HERE!
Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Has infidelity damaged your marriage? Sign up for Dr. Kim’s webinar Rebuilding Trust and Establishing Healthy Boundaries After an Affair and learn what steps to take next.
15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here!
Follow Awesome Marriage on Instagram for more marriage tips!
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How well do you choose your battles? If you struggle with recurring conflict in marriage, you might need to work on choosing your battles. On the other hand, if you’re feeling resentment but you’re not sure how to address it… you might need to work on choosing your battles. Today Dr. Kim is going to help you learn how to choose your battles well.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
Knowing when to stand your ground vs. when to let go
The underlying message in your recurring marriage issues
How to balance love and grace with speaking the truth
The path to build trust for open and honest feedback
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Some things are not worth arguing over! You can reduce the tension in your marriage by learning to choose your battles better.
Questions to Discuss:
What situations tend to end in recurring arguments in your marriage?
Are any of those battles you can let go of, instead of fighting?
Is there any resentment you need to let go of today?
QUOTES
Instead of being critical, learn to work together. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
Stay faithful to agreements you’ve made. The things you agreed on affect one another. - Lindsay Few
It doesn’t have to be a battle. - Lindsay Few
Getting defensive just never works. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Our Conflict Resolution Cheat Sheet is a printable resource to help you address conflict the healthy way. Grab the free cheat sheet HERE!
Has infidelity damaged your marriage? Sign up for Dr. Kim’s webinar Rebuilding Trust and Establishing Healthy Boundaries After an Affair and learn what steps to take next.
15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here!
What situations tend to end in recurring arguments in your marriage?
Are any of those battles you can let go of, instead of fighting?
Is there any resentment you need to let go of today?
QUOTES
Instead of being critical, learn to work together. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
Stay faithful to agreements you’ve made. The things you agreed on affect one another. - Lindsay Few
It doesn’t have to be a battle. - Lindsay Few
Getting defensive just never works. - Dr. Kim Kimberling
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
Our Conflict Resolution Cheat Sheet is a printable resource to help you address conflict the healthy way. Grab the free cheat sheet HERE!
Has infidelity damaged your marriage? Sign up for Dr. Kim’s webinar Rebuilding Trust and Establishing Healthy Boundaries After an Affair and learn what steps to take next.
15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here!
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After a few “golden years” of ministry for Ken Guidroz and his family, things imploded. When Ken had to face the unimaginable as a dad, faith was hard to find. Hope seemed distant as he, his wife, and their marriage both struggled to recover. Today Ken shares the story of how they clung to each other and found hope to move forward together, through their darkest season.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
How to hold onto faith when you feel hopeless
Maintaining marriage unity while holding different parenting values
How to recover from marriage disagreements you can’t forget
Ken’s story of breaking through to the other side after a dark season
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: When your marriage is rocked by the unexpected, allow your spouse to process the way they need to. Focus on supporting one another, and finding common bonds.
Questions to Discuss:
What has been your hardest marriage season? What helped you stay close in that time?
What is one way you can strengthen your marriage today to protect it for the future?
QUOTES
In some ways, it was our toughest time ever. In other ways, it was “you and me, honey, against the world.” - Ken Guidroz
To say we felt like we had a scarlet letter on our chest is an understatement. - Ken Guidroz
We were partners in the pit. It was tough. But it also cemented us for life. - Ken Guidroz
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Find more of Ken’s writing, including his book, Letters to My Son in Jail, on his website
15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here!
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Your mindset greatly impacts your day to day life. If you’re stuck in unhealthy or unhelpful thought patterns, both you and your marriage will suffer. But there are simple ways to unpack your thought patterns and replace the unhelpful with a biblical perspective. In today’s episode we’re looking at practical ways to adopt a gracious, life-giving perspective in marriage.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
Common perspective mistakes in marriage and what causes them
Practical tips to resolve perspective issues and create a Biblical perspective
What do secret sin and perspective have in common?
Ways to communicate more effectively and seek to understand your spouse's perspective
Tips to cultivate oneness and a spiritual foundation of unity
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Is your perspective of your spouse realistic? For most issues, a generous perspective and good communication can get you through it together.
Questions to Discuss:
Do you have any unrealistic expectations of your spouse today? If you’re not sure, check them out together.
Are you and your spouse at odds over an issue? Take the time to learn what matters most to your spouse about their position on it.
Do you have thought habits that are leading to bitterness or resentment in your marriage?
QUOTES
"It's hard to step into your spouse's shoes or take the time to do that, to have empathy for them." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
"Resentment can be a huge thing and it's so dangerous because if we don't stop it, it continues to grow." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“Perspective is your lens on the world. If your lens is covered with smudges and you’re not seeing clearly, that’s not the world’s fault. You’ve got to clean your lens.” - Lindsay Few
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
If you are ready to have a better perspective – and a better marriage, then the biblically-based 4 Week Reframing Challenge is for you!
Turn to God and ask him to renew your mind with our NEW resource, 11 Prayers To Stop Thinking Negatively About Your Spouse
15 Better Assumptions To Make About Your Spouse is a free printable to help you set your mind on what is true, right and good. Learn more here!
Join the Marriage Changer Movement! Because a world full of awesome marriages can change the world Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more! -
An affair doesn’t have to mean the end of a marriage. At Awesome Marriage, we have seen so many marriages restored! Yet the recovery process will take time and working together to see the Lord heal the union. If you’ve experienced this pain, you need a guide to help you along the way.
Rick Reynolds joins Dr. Kim today to share his story of marriage recovery, and how he’s used his own painful experience to help others through the process of rebuilding after infidelity.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
How to avoid common behaviors that can set you up for an affair
How to rebuild a marriage after affair - better than before
Why Christians need to be aware of their own vulnerability
How to overcome the obstacles to recovering after infidelity
Common mistakes in the affair recovery process
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: One of the best ways to protect your marriage from an affair is to realize you could be vulnerable to infidelity, and put boundaries in place. If your marriage has experienced infidelity, it can be restored much stronger than before.
Questions to Discuss:
What boundaries do you have in your life to prevent even baby steps toward an affair?
Are you a safe place for your spouse to be completely honest and open? What would help make your marriage a safer place for honesty?
QUOTES
“When we fall, what’s important is what we do afterwards.” - Rick Reynolds
“A lot of Christians don’t realize they’re vulnerable, so they don’t put constraints in place. Then they find themselves in a mess.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“What heals is empathy and emotional responsiveness.” - Rick Reynolds
“The wayward spouse needs to understand that disclosure is the way that trust is reestablished.” - Rick Reynolds
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Learn more or sign up for the Hope Rising Conference at AffairRecovery.com
If you feel defeated about your marriage, or are considering divorce, our 90 Days to Save Your Marriage plan is for you. Learn more here.
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When costs keep rising, and earnings often don’t match, money stress is bound to invade your marriage. Most couples face additional tension around how to handle finances well – as well as how to handle them together.
In today’s podcast, Dr. Kim talks with Dan and Kay Ockey about how to take control of your finances, even in times of financial uncertainty. Dan and Kay offer concrete and actionable advice on how to take the steps to get out of debt, make a realistic plan, and work together. Tune in for help to get your finances in order.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
The action plan for how to start tracking finances
Productive ways to handle the realities of inflation and financial uncertainty
2 keys for financial success in a marriage
Use this reframing shift and fight over finances less
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
QUOTES
"The magic bullet doesn't exist, but being real about your numbers and not spending more than you make is key." - Dan Ockey
“We’re finding that among a lot of people there’s an expectation you should have the life you want.” - Dan Ockey
“We may not have the money to do all the things we want right now, and that’s ok. You’re not a failure - you can work toward that.” - Dan Ockey
“Our money conversations were so painful. Then I realized that our unity was more important than my beliefs about money.” - Dan Ockey
Couples Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Unity in your marriage finances requires a team mindset, learning about each other, and learning the skills to handle money well.
Questions to Discuss:
What financial beliefs are keeping you from unity in your marriage?
Are you working toward a common goal together today? If not, work together to set one.
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Learn how to avoid the 4 common budgeting mistakes couples make when in the FREE Centsei Class. Learn more here.
The Gap and the Gain
Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask
Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
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Show of hands: Are you an Amazon box hider? … or do you have your spouse break down the boxes for you?
All joking aside, online shopping can be an issue that hinders couples’ closeness. Money management in general can be a hot topic, but the wide range of ways we can spend money online with just the click of a button can create some additional obstacles, and we hear about it from couples all the time. Today we’re equipping you to resolve this issue.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
Red flags that you need to address online spending with your spouse.
The role of trust in marriage money habits
How to know when online shopping has become a problem
The negative cycle of emotional triggers
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
QUOTES
“When you look into what’s most important with money, you make a lot more progress more quickly.” - Lindsay Few
"When you quit being a team, that's when it becomes a problem." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
"If shopping is getting in the way of closeness with your spouse, then something needs to change." - Dr. Kim Kimberling
Couple's Conversation Guide:
Main takeaway: Money secrets do not serve your marriage well, so do what it takes to build trust with your spouse around finances.
Questions to Discuss:
Are there any money habits your spouse does not know about you?
What areas bring out money tension for your marriage?
What is one step that would help you work through that and build unity today?
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Learn how to avoid the 4 common budgeting mistakes couples make when in the FREE Centsei Class. Learn more here.
Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask
Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
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We don’t often talk about our failures, but maybe that needs to change. It’s easy to focus on others’ highlight reel, while we’re highly aware of our own personal shortcomings. But the shame of feeling like we don’t measure up keeps us from real relationships.
Today we’re going there with special guest, Becky Kiser, as we talk about the power of the gospel and how God uses us in spite of our shortcomings. Don’t miss this powerful conversation.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
Fight the cascade effect of feeling like a failure
The two most debated sections of Becky’s new book - and why!
The 1st step to start loving your spouse well
How to move out of shame and into freedom
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
QUOTES
“Even women who are successful; women who have accomplished a bunch, deal with failure.” - Becky Kiser
“The Gospel message is not, ‘Get your life together then God can do something with your life.’” - Becky Kiser
“I’ve found the most freedom from acknowledging I can’t.” - Becky Kiser
"Not all failures are actual failures. They’re just a part of life.” - Becky Kiser
"We spend so much time ‘dying to ourselves’ that we think there’s no value to ourselves.” - Becky Kiser
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Find Becky at https://www.beckykiser.com/ and on Instagram @beckykiser
Grab the new book, “But God Can” today!
Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask
Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
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After five years of marriage, Kristin and Todd Evans’ world was rocked when they learned they were about to become parents to a child with a disability. The stress, grief and the demands of learning to be caregivers to a child with disabilities transformed their once-joyful marriage and nearly broke it apart.
When spouses are also caregivers, the marriage will face challenges that others may not know anything about. Today Todd and Kristin share their powerful story of learning to navigate this reality and how they have kept their marriage strong through it all.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
The additional challenges parents face as caregivers
Learning to cope with the ‘living loss’ of disability
How to set and communicate priorities in an unending to do list
Ways to deepening emotional connection & intimacy while always “on call”
Handling grief and chronic sorrow together
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
QUOTES
“For all parents, there’s a sacrificial piece to it. For special needs parents, it goes to a new level of what you have to sacrifice.” - Todd Evans
“1 in 3 caregivers experience depression and anxiety.” - Kristin Evans
“I couldn’t understand why I couldn't’ get over my grief, but Todd had moved on.” - Kristin Evans
“There’s not a right or wrong way to grieve, it’s just different.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Order the Evans’ book, How to Build a Thriving Marriage as You Care for Children with Disabilities
Follow @DisabilityParenting on Instagram for more great tips!
Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask
Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
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Reduce money stress in your marriage by making sure your money knows where to go!
Don’t avoid talking about money with your spouse: Establishing a budget you can both stick to will certainly pay off long term. Today Dr. Kim shares several simple tricks that help him and Nancy to stress less and be intentional with their finances.
We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage.
Episode highlights include:
The basic starting point for building a budget
The budget category Dr. Kim & Nancy would NEVER cut out
The power of breaking a scarcity mindset and becoming generous
Strategies to better money management
How to get started if you’ve never budgeted
*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here!
QUOTES
“We felt like it was always important to have a date.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“Make sure to build in your budget that you can go out somewhere each week and not have to worry about it.” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“God is so generous, and that’s really what we want to emulate.” - Lindsay Few
“My lack of generosity was not the person I wanted to be.” - Lindsay Few
Continue to ask, “What are our financial goals? How do we budget to make them work?” - Dr. Kim Kimberling
“If you need help, get it. If you’re going to fight about money for 50 years, that doesn’t sound fun at all. ”- Dr. Kim Kimberling
“When you tithe 10%, the 90% you have left goes a lot further than you thought the 100% would.” - Lindsay Few
“I don’t know anyone personally who would say they regret tithing.” - Lindsay Few
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Get the budget conversation started with 27 Money Questions Every Couple Needs to Ask
Learn how to avoid the 4 common budgeting mistakes couples make when in the FREE Centsei Class. Learn more here.
Marriage Multiplier is a quick and highly practical weekly email to help you invest in your marriage. CLICK HERE to learn more!
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